When looking at a map, it is easy to be confused by the distinction between the two islands of Lewis and Harris – after all, it is just one landmass. However, once you’ve visited, you’ll understand they are very different places (and your opinion on which is better will depend heavily on where you’re from!). Harris is largely rock and water, with some peat thrown in, and is mountainous. Lewis is large peaty moorland and much flatter. Harris is renowned for its beaches, particularly those on its western coast, the most famous of which is undoubtedly Luskentyre. If you are fortunate enough to visit on a sunny day, you will know why pictures of it abound and are loved worldwide. Seilebost, Huisnis, and Scarista are also beautiful.
Lewis also boasts internationally famous landmarks, such as the standing stones at Calanis which are worthy of a visit whatever the weather. Lewis has its fair share of beautiful sandy beaches, too, such as Brenish and (? Is it Niss? Ness? Something up there on the north coast)
Sporting – golf, tennis, fishing, sea sports, walking/climbing and cycling
You will know before you even get off the ferry that the Outer Hebrides is a favorite destination for cyclists! The roads are narrow but carry so little traffic as to be ideal cycling territory, with some challenging climbs and thrilling descents.
Walking is an obvious attraction, with many miles of way-posted walks and a climb up the Clisham, Harris’ highest peak at ____m a strenuous day out, but offering the chance of spotting some wonderful wildlife, such as golden eagles and red deer.
Perhaps surprisingly, there are tennis courts on the way to Huisnis (Jamie Murray was recently pictured playing there) and golf courses at Scarista and on Lewis at Uig and Stornoway.
Fishing in the sea, bays and lochs can be rewarding but you will need to obtain permits for any of the lochs. The bays and sea offer opportunities for surfing, wind surfing and kayaking.
Local industry – farming/crofting, fishing, weaving, distilling, brewing
Crofting, fishing and weaving were the traditional livelihoods and all are still important to the local economy, but now you can add distilling and brewing to the list with the advent of the Harris distillery, located by the ferry terminal in Tarbert and the Loomshed brewery on the outskirts of Tarbert.
Eating out
There are many excellent cafes and a growing number of fine dining establishments. We are very fond of the North Harbour Bistro on Scalpay (booking essential in the high season) and we are hearing very good reports of the Anchorage in Leverburgh.
Sundays
Come to the islands prepared for Sundays to be different than you are used to, but possible more similar to what your grandparents would have expected. Very little is open – no shops, garages, few eateries. There is no public transport.